Vermont’s Underground Storage Tank (UST) A/B operator training is a vital program designed to ensure that operators are knowledgeable about the regulations and best practices for managing UST systems. This training, mandated by the federal Energy Policy Act of 2005 and incorporated into Vermont’s UST Rules in 2009, focuses on educating operators about the roles and responsibilities of Class A, B, and C operators.
The primary goal is to prevent spills and leaks, ensure proper emergency response, and maintain routine inspection procedures. By completing this training, operators are better equipped to comply with state and federal regulations, thereby protecting the environment from potential contamination caused by UST system failures.
The training is conveniently available online, making it accessible to operators throughout the state. It covers a comprehensive range of topics, including spill and leak prevention, emergency response protocols, and inspection preparedness.
This certification process ensures that operators are knowledgeable and holds them accountable for the proper management of their UST systems. The training’s thorough approach helps operators detect and address issues promptly, reducing the risk of environmental hazards.
Overall, Vermont’s UST A/B operator training plays a critical role in safeguarding public health and the environment. By promoting the responsible operation of underground storage tanks, the program helps prevent contamination of soil and groundwater, which can have severe consequences for ecosystems and human health. The training ensures that operators are well-prepared to handle any issues that may arise, fostering a culture of safety and compliance within the industry. This proactive approach to UST management underscores Vermont’s commitment to environmental protection and sustainable practices.
All of PASS’ UST operator training courses
meet and exceed the federal requirements for UST operator training and are offered through our in-house designed and built
Learning Management System (LMS). PASS’ state-specific A/B training courses are custom tailored to meet state requirements, and are
accepted by more states than any other training provider. Our courses are available
on demand, 24/7 and are
accessible from any internet-connected computer, tablet, or phone. The student can complete an entire course in a single session or take the course in segments. The training may be stopped and restarted, allowing for maximum schedule flexibility. PASS also
does not impose time restrictions on course access, so students may take as much time as they need to complete their training.
PASS’ UST operator training course content is divided into chapters. Each chapter utilizes a combination of text, images, and narration, providing a multi-faceted learning experience for diverse learning styles. Each chapter is followed by a quiz. If the student answers a quiz question incorrectly, the application automatically redirects the student to the correct course information. The student is then given another opportunity to answer the quiz question. This reflexive quizzing model ensures comprehension of the course material and reinforces learner retention.
In addition to the quizzes, the UST Class A/B operator training course includes a final exam, 80% of which must be answered correctly in order to print a certificate. The trainee can complete the entire course in a single session (approximately 4 hours plus exam time) or take the course in segments.
Operator Overview
Chapter 1
This first chapter discusses one of the most critical components of any facility: the personnel. Both the EPA and each state has regulations for operator duties and training. This chapter explains the different roles. Stations are expensive to run and maintain. It is not just as simple as distributing product, selling sodas and collecting money.
System and Components
Chapter 2
This chapter gives a thumbnail description of the mechanics of a facility. It is extremely important for station personnel to know the components of a station, and how it operates. Many points addressed in this training also will examine environmental issues. Throughout the training are documents to download. These will help station operators perform their duties.
Release Detection
Chapter 3
While every facility is different, they all have release detection, or monitoring, equipment in common. This chapter looks at the various monitoring devices, and what role an operator plays. Monitoring is important to catch leaks before they become a major headache. No operator wants to be responsible for ignoring monitoring issues resulting in a release into the environment
Release Prevention
Chapter 4
In their collective wisdom, the states and the EPA mandate certain components to avoid a major spill or leak. Station operators should follow the two M’s: maintenance and monitoring. Doing both can avoid or lessen the impact of costly repairs or remediation. This chapter will help operators do just that.
Planning and Response
Chapter 5
Okay, so there is a leak/spill/or overfill: what to do? First, be prepared. Think these steps through before a problem occurs. This chapter outlines what must be done in the event of a small incident or a major spill. Have a list of procedures and contacts posted at the facility, so personnel will not have to scramble under pressure.
Financial Responsibility
Chapter 6
Running a facility is an expensive investment. Both the state and the EPA want to make certain that operators can handle the financial requirements and the costs of a cleanup. In this chapter, are required financial guarantees. These are fairly standard in all the states, as is a state cleanup fund to help in remediation. Operators will want to keep records of all expenditures and costs, as in any business., The state will inspect the facility and all documents.
Registration and Installation
Chapter 7
All tanks must be registered with the states before they go into operation, with annual fees paid. They also need permits for the local authorizing body before being installed. If the ownership changes, the state must be notified. If there is a bankruptcy, the state must be notified, and if the product is changed in a tank, the state needs to know. Again, keep all records.
Inspection and Closure
Chapter 8
In this final chapter are instructions on inspection and monitoring, and guidelines for when it should be done. These are not suggestions, consider this a station’s “To Do” list. If the two M’s are not followed: Monitoring and Maintenance -- it could lead to a function failure. If there is a problem, the state can issue a warning with a deadline for repairs; and in most states a Red Tag. A Red Tag prohibits delivery to one or several tanks if the deadline passes and repairs are not made. Also in this chapter, if one of the tanks needs to be “retired” or put out of service either temporarily or permanently, there are guidelines for this procedure as well.